The story of how my business got started might surprise you. When I first picked up my camera, I had no inkling that I would use it to photograph weddings. I did not even think I would make any money with it at all!
In 2017, I was a fresh college grad hustling to build my portfolio to land a job in digital marketing. I wanted to make writing a big part of my career, so I decided to revamp my old blog. It was called “Feathers of Fancy” – a blog about life, faith, and just generally anything I was inspired to write. The name was inspired by my favorite animal: the flamingo! Fanciest feathered friend I could think of.
My niece Brooke and sister-in-law Ashley
Brooke plays my brother-in-law’s ukulele
My brother Dave drives the house boat
Lake Powell
My nephew Nathan swimming
My brother Erik slides down the waterslide
I wanted everything about “Feathers of Fancy” to be organically my own – even the images that dotted my blog posts. So when my talented photographer sister-in-law told me she was selling her old Canon EOS 60D DSLR, I hopped at the opportunity. For $300, I had a new toy that I had NO idea how to use.
My sister tries to photobomb a picture of me in front of our house boat
I first practiced with it on our big family vacation to Lake Powell. My family rented a huge house boat for a week. We drove around the large canyon-surrounded lake exploring, swimming, kayaking, hiking the red rocky shorelines, and tubing. The moment I started shooting, I felt such a buzz. It’s like I knew this was about to turn into something different than I originally intended.
One thing led to another, a few fun photo sessions with friends, a few special requests for legit, paid sessions, and before I knew it I was falling more in love with the idea of starting my own business. Sounds simple, but I assure you it wasn’t – and still isn’t. But that’s a story for another time.
For now, I thought it’d be fun to share those “first-ever” images I took with my DSLR. I shoot a Canon 5D Mark IV, but that trusty $300 hand-me-down served me well when I was learning. And WHEW it’s crazy to look back at these – my terrible editing, experimental composition, fuzzy focus.
But I’ll always love these images. Not only do they commemorate one of my favorite family vacations, but they’re the conception of what Emily Nicole Photography is today.
Every detail of the Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase 2025 was pure magic. As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I had the joy of being invited to capture not only the beautifully curated spaces but also the intimate behind-the-scenes moments that made this spring showcase possible. From lush florals to elegant table settings, the event was a treasure trove of spring wedding inspiration for brides dreaming up their perfect day.
Hosted at Nova Studio in the heart of Atlanta, this carefully crafted experience was designed to set the tone for the upcoming wedding season—and it did not disappoint.
Spring Wedding Inspiration for Modern Southern Brides
The design vision for the showcase–Prima Flora–embraced soft pastels, delicate textures, and fresh seasonal styling. Think romantic blush tones, textured linens, and floral-forward installations. Madelyn and her talented team created a setting that felt simultaneously elevated and welcoming. It was truly a perfect exhibition of what sophisticated spring weddings can be in Georgia.
As I arrived early to document the event setup, I was able to photograph the team in their element: adjusting linens, styling stationery, and rehearsing the layout one last time. These behind-the-scenes moments revealed just how much heart went into this event. It’s easy to see why so many brides trust Madelyn Tenney Events to bring their dream weddings to life.
Behind the Scenes with Madelyn Tenney Events
Before the doors opened, I had the privilege of capturing team headshots for the women behind Madelyn Tenney Events. Their energy, collaboration, and vision made it clear this wasn’t just a design showcase—it was a heartfelt celebration of creativity and community.
The environment was buzzing with excitement as florists arranged final stems and vendors fluffed the final cushions. The team’s chemistry was undeniable, and it translated directly into the seamless flow of the event itself.
The Madelyn Tenney Events Spring Design Showcase
At the heart of the showcase were the intentional design vignettes. Each space told a story, offering spring wedding inspiration tailored for modern Southern brides. One standout element was a centerpiece floral installation by Marigo Flowers, assisted by Pollen Floral Company. It floated above a table layered with blush-toned linens from BBJ La Tavola, catching the light beautifully throughout the afternoon.
An eye-catching ice sculpture by Ice Sculpture Inc. ATL added a playful, elevated touch to the scene, while live entertainment from Jewel the Ballerina captivated attendees with ethereal movement, bringing life to the experience. Glasswing Rentals curated tableware that sparkled under the natural light of Nova Studio, and JC Rental Collective and Party Bound contributed pieces that gave each setup personality and polish.
Why This Event Matters for Atlanta Brides
If you’re a bride planning a wedding in Atlanta, Savannah, or North Georgia looking for fresh spring wedding inspiration, events like this one are invaluable. They don’t just showcase trends—they display the talent of local, trustworthy vendors who are passionate about what they do.
Every vendor at this showcase brought their A-game. Seeing each one’s work in person—and getting to document it as a film-inspired wedding photographer—was such an honor.
What I Loved Most as an Atlanta Wedding Photographer
Photographing this spring wedding inspiration at Nova Studio was a dream. The soft filtered light made the colors pop in a way that felt timeless and true-to-color. My goal is always to deliver film-inspired wedding photos that feel both editorial and authentic. The setting created by Madelyn Tenney Events was ideal for that.
Being trusted to document the designs and the passion behind them—team portraits, set-up, genuine laughter—reminds me why I love this work. These are the moments that couples don’t always see. These are the images that reveal the effort, energy, and heart poured into a couple’s day long before they say I do.
Want more from this amazing showcase? The full gallery is available for your viewing and inspiration!
If you’re planning a spring wedding in Georgia, take this as your sign: romantic color palettes, thoughtful texture layering, intentional florals, and a dream team of vendors are always a winning combination. And if you’re looking for a light and airy wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture it all.
Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me to inquire for more information about pricing and packages!
